Trump's swinging axe may hit Guam; Senator urges local agencies to brace for potential impact of sweeping cuts

 By Pacific Island Times News Staff

As President Donald Trump puts more federal programs and initiatives on the chopping bloc, a Guam senator advised local agencies to prepare for possible cuts in federal funding streams.

Vincent Borja

“While we do not expect all federal programs and grants to be cut, it is prudent to anticipate funding reductions, especially given the administration’s efforts to scale back government spending,” Sen. Vince Borja said in a letter to agency heads, urging them to make “proactive planning.”

The 2025 budget law projected $190 million in annual federal matching grants-in-aid and other awards for this fiscal year.

Late last month, the U.S. Office of Budget Management announced a funding freeze on all federal loans and programs, but the directive was rescinded two days later.

However, the flow of federal funds still hangs in the balance given the Trump administration’s unpredictable steps amid its massive sweep to shrink the federal bureaucracy.

According to the Congressional Research Center, there are 3,215 civilian federal employees stationed on Guam. The number doesn't include local hires, whose positions are federally funded.

 “I urge all agency leaders under my oversight to conduct thorough reviews of their financial dependencies and reach out for any legislative assistance they may require as they plan for the future,” Borja said.

 “Recent executive orders targeting Diversity, Equity and Inclusion programs within the federal government are a clear indication of the direction being taken, and agencies must be prepared to pivot and adapt to ensure the continued delivery of essential services,” he added.

Borja’s letter was addressed to the Guam Department of Education, Guam Academy Charter Schools Council, University of Guam, Guam Community College, Guam Public Library System, PBS Guam, and other agencies under his oversight,

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